Antibiotics use in pregnancy linked to higher infection risk in babies

New research has found mothers who take prescribed antibiotics during pregnancy may have children at a higher risk of needing hospital treatment for infections.

Data from about 700,000 births was used in the study conducted by the Melbourne-based Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, with scientists analysing whether or not mothers had taken antibiotics before, during and after pregnancy.

Research found that found mums who had used antibiotics 18-months prior to birth may have infants facing a 20 percent higher risk of being hospitalised due to infection.

Doctor Ric Gordon told the TODAY Show that despite the findings, women should not be deterred from taking prescribed medication.